By James Sunday, FCAI, MNIIA
The popular saying goes: “Leadership is not about influence but about impact.” Many short-sighted observers dismissed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR (PBAT), when he suspended Rivers State Governor, H.E. Siminalayi Fubara, in an effort to stabilize the state and restore peace and security. At that time, the State House of Assembly and the Executive were at loggerheads, unwilling to sheath their swords, while the social, economic, and political affairs of Rivers State were in decline. It took the decisive intervention of a leader like PBAT, acting under the powers of a Presidential Executive Order as enshrined in the Constitution, to salvage the situation.
Six months later, Rivers State had regained stability, and peace had returned, though not without scars. Analysts pointed out that administrators in a democratic system sometimes struggle because of their backgrounds as former military officers, tending to decree rather than legislate. This serves as a lesson to state executives and political actors: play according to the rules.
Every politically conscious Nigerian must commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his timely intervention, his democratically sensitive leadership, and his foresight in strategic democratic practice. Kudos must be given to Mr. President for keeping his promises. History reminds us of Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, who was sent into exile until he recognized the authority of God. Though no one usurped his throne, he was temporarily out of power until he acknowledged divine authority. This is not a direct comparison, but the lesson is clear: **power is a loan. Abuse it, and you risk losing it—even if only for a while. Use it wisely, and you remain relevant.
To Mr. President, the once-doubting voices are now grateful that you fulfilled your word. A lesson has been learned. To Bar. Nyesom Wike, it is time to move forward. Even the father of the prodigal son welcomed him back with a royal robe. Rivers State must continue to lead, while others follow. You have demonstrated your political relevance; now is the time to be people-conscious, to stand as a true leader who genuinely cares for his people. You have all it takes to support Governor Fubara to succeed, and if you do, your name will be written in gold.
To Governor Fubara, our friend: we are happy for you and will continue to support your success. Let politics be set aside, and let true leadership take its course. In this political game, there must be no vanquished, no victor, only winners.